RUGBY LIONS slipped back from the edge of the National Division Three promotion race when losing out to a Leicester Lions side who showed more consistency and discipline than their visitors.

Rugby coaching team member Tony Hunt said: "This was disappointing as we won enough ball and the forwards worked tirelessly and won several Leicester line-outs.

"But we weren't always direct enough in our play - when we were, we looked threatening.

"We made two defensive lapses and missed two good opportunities whereas Leicester always seemed to make sure they came away from our 22 with some points one way or another."

A tight opening half hour saw Jon Boden kick a penalty and drop goal for Leicester with James Hawken's penalty sandwiched between for 6-3.

But then with Stuart Riding sinbinned, Rugby conceded David Bennett's converted try to trail 13-3 at the break.

Leicester added another penalty but despite Tristan Prosser-Shaw's yellow card Rugby hit back with two converted tries by Toby Handley and Matt Goode which closed the scores to 19-17 with 56 minutes played.

Rugby errors then gave Leicester another chance and Wyn Roberts' converted try allowed his side to run down the clock and consolidate their second place.